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The Volkswagen brand at a glance
The Volkswagen brand is one of the world’s largest and most important car manufacturers. For more than 70 years we have been making innovative technologies, top quality and attractive design accessible for many people – for example, with bestsellers such as the Beetle or the Golf. We want to proactively shape the ongoing transformation of the automotive industry: our growing I.D. family represents a new generation of fully-connected electric cars that will play a significant role in the breakthrough of this technology.
With annual deliveries to customers topping the 6 million mark, the Volkswagen brand is a key pillar in the success of the Volkswagen Group. Wolfsburg is the brand’s nerve center – the city is not only home to brand headquarters and the development center, but also where the main plant is located. We operate over 50 production locations on all five continents and employ more than 200,000 people. With some 70 different models, we have a presence in all major market segments and almost every country around the world. Vehicle deliveries are highest in China and Europe.
Our TRANSFORM 2025+ strategy rolled out in 2016 marked the beginning of a far-reaching transformation process. The brand is to become a leading, profitable volume manufacturer as well as playing a leading role in the new world of automobility in the long term. Alongside significant improvements in efficiency and productivity, we are also focusing on a global model offensive: we will be launching more than ten new models per year, many of them SUVs, up to 2020. The first models from the full battery-electric, fully-connected I.D. family will then make their debut from 2020. The brand mission: the iconic car of the electric age must be a Volkswagen.
“We are not only embracing change in the automotive industry, but also shaping this transformation from the forefront.”
Key figures - Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand
Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand
Press releases
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Volkswagen Classic honoured for successful electromobility campaign
Cause for celebration at Volkswagen Classic: The heritage division of the Wolfsburg-based group was named the winner of the “Campaign” category of the 2018 Automotive Brand Contest. The multifaceted history of electromobility at Volkswagen was successfully interpreted in a cross-media campaign and was honoured by the international jury of independent experts. The awards will be presented at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris at the start of October. -
Volkswagen places software developers in pole position with its “Faculty 73“ project
Volkswagen is transforming itself from an automaker into a mobility provider and is now forcing the pace with the implementation of its strategy: in future, the company will be training hundreds of software developers itself. This is the objective of the innovative “Faculty 73” program which the Volkswagen Group Academy has developed specifi-cally for this purpose. Training for the first group of participants is to start in the spring of 2019 and the application and selection phase will start in October 2018. The program will prepare trainees for work as a software developer with Volkswagen and is intended for people who have completed their vocational training and have IT skills as well as internal and external applicants with appropriate qualifications. A de-gree is not required. -
WRC comeback with Volkswagen: Petter Solberg to drive the new Polo GTI R5 in Spain
He’s back! 2003 champion Petter Solberg (N) returns to the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) with the Volkswagen Polo GTI R5. Solberg and co-driver Veronica Engan (N) will compete in the WRC 2 class at the Rally Spain in Catalonia from 25 to 28 October. Six years after his last rally in 2012, the Norwegian will make his comeback in precisely the same place, at which he called time on his rally career. Solberg, who drives a Polo for his PSRX Volkswagen Sweden team in the FIA World Rallycross Championship (WRX), will briefly change fields. The Polo GTI R5 will make its competitive debut at the Rally Spain, which will be the car’s only outing with the Volkswagen works team. The R5 rally car will then be run by customer teams in national and international championships. -
Holger B. Santel to head Sales and Marketing Germany at Volkswagen brand passenger cars
Holger B. Santel, currently Executive Vice President of SAIC Volkswagen in China, is to head Sales and Marketing Germany at the Volkswagen brand passenger cars. In this function he succeeds Thomas Zahn, who is getting ready for other assignments in the Volkswagen Group. Santel will assume responsibility for the Volkswagen brand’s business in Germany effective Nobember 1st, 2018. -
Volkswagen Group’s new importer contracts pave the way for digitalization
The Audi, ŠKODA, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and Volkswagen Passenger Cars brands, together with their partners from ten European importers, signed the new importer contracts in Wolfsburg this week. Contracts with the Group’s own companies in a further 15 markets were also exchanged. As a result, the Volkswagen Group has agreed new contracts for almost all European markets. Some 4.1 million vehicles were delivered in these markets, including the home market of Germany, in 2017. The contracts are an important strategic milestone for the Volkswagen Group and define a new joint business model that is shaped in particular by ongoing digitalization. Going forward, manufacturer, importer and dealer will jointly communicate with customers, speaking with one voice across all contact points. The contracts are also an important prerequisite for marketing the Volkswagen Group’s new all-electric, fully-connected vehicles and come into effect starting in April 2020 in good time for the market launch of these models. -
Volkswagen’s success continues in August
The Volkswagen brand handed over 513,300 vehicles to customers worldwide in August, representing an increase of 3.7 percent compared with the same month of the previous year and a new record for the month of August. All in all, 4,137,900 vehicles were delivered from January to August, a rise of 6.2 percent compared with the corresponding period of the previous year, and a further record. Jürgen Stackmann, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Sales, commented: “August was another strong month for the Volkswagen brand in many markets: we posted record deliveries for the month of August and for the period January-August. We will be able to deliver far fewer vehicles in Europe in September due to the changeover to the WLTP test procedure. October will also get off to a subdued start, but we are expecting a strong performance from the Volkswagen brand in November and December in particular.” -
Works meeting in Wolfsburg: team praised for improving efficiency and productivity
At today’s works meeting held at the Wolfsburg plant, Board Member for Human Resources Gunnar Kilian, Group and General Works Council Chairman Bernd Osterloh and Group Board of Management Member Oliver Blume thanked employees for their commitment in the first half of 2018. 34 special shifts were worked at the Wolfsburg plant in the first two quarters alone, and several thousand vehicles were produced and stored on an interim basis due to the WLTP test procedure ready for delivery once approvals have been issued by the authorities. Kilian underscored that Volkswagen will not let up in its efficiency efforts. Osterloh called for clarity for the workforce about plant operation in the 4th quarter. Blume emphasized that Group Production sees itself as a driver for efficiency, and gives the Group a clear competitive edge. -
Ready for mass production: Volkswagen uses the latest 3D printing process for production
Volkswagen is the first automotive manufacturer using the latest 3D printing technology: the “HP Metal Jet” process simplifies and speeds up metallic 3D printing. The biggest advantage: productivity improves fifty times compared to other 3D printing methods and depending on the component. Hence, for the first time, three-dimensional printing is mass production ready in automotive industry. Together with printer manufacturer HP and component manufacturer GKN Powder Metallurgy, Volkswagen is therefore pressing ahead with the development of the technology for mass production. The partners presented the new process for the first time at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago. -
Volkswagen sends out a clear signal in Chemnitz against xenophobia, discrimination, exclusion
Volkswagen Board members, Works Council members and employees sent out a clear signal against discrimination, xenophobia and exclusion at an information event at the Chemnitz engine plant on Friday. At the same time, they spoke up clearly respectful in favor of diversity and a respectful partnership with one another. For Volkswagen, these are unshakeable principles. -
Volkswagen's incubator program goes international: six new start-ups move into the Gläserne Manufaktur
The start-up program in the "Future Mobility Incubator" at the Gläserne Manufaktur is striking out in new directions. For the first time, Volkswagen has only selected international start-ups, at pitch competitions held in Tel Aviv, Prague, London, Riga, and Hanover: CarPay-Diem comes from Luxembourg, Zouzoucar from France, carVertical from Lithuania, ToporAuto from Russia, Make My Day from Israel, and Go To-U from Ukraine. They are now working at the Gläserne Manufaktur where they are able to develop their ideas to market readiness with support from Volkswagen and the city of Dresden’s business development team. -
Curriculum vitae: Dr. Stefan Sommer
Group Board Member for Components and Procurement. -
Volkswagen expands its engagement in Africa: memorandums of understanding signed with Ghana and Nigeria
During German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s visit to Africa, Volkswagen signed two memorandums of understanding with the governments of Ghana and Nigeria. The stated goal is to build plants in both countries and to explore the development of new mobility solutions in Ghana. The document was signed in Ghana in the presence of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. The Nigerian Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okey Enelamah attended the signing ceremony in Abuja. The Head of the Volkswagen Sub-Saharan Region, Thomas Schaefer, signed both agreements on behalf of Volkswagen. -
Volkswagen Classic at GTI Coming Home 2018 in Wolfsburg: Seven icons with three letters
For the second time, Wolfsburg is hosting a full day devoted to the legendary Volkswagen sports car, which, since 1976, has been more synonymous with power, driving pleasure and attitude than virtually any other car – the Golf GTI. Volkswagen Classic is represented by all seven generations of the GTI family on 1 September. The powerful Golf Mk2 Pikes Peak and rally ace Jochi Kleint will also be attending the GTI meet in Wolfsburg. -
Dr. Frank Welsch: “The success on Pikes Peak is of long-term importance”
The Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak made history with its record-breaking run at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on 24 June: the first fully-electric racing car from Wolfsburg conquered the 19.99-kilometre route in 7:57.148 minutes. However, the 500-kW (680-PS) I.D. R Pikes Peak is far more than just a record holder – it is the sporty ambassador for the I.D. family, Volkswagen’s range of fully-electric production vehicles, which will hit the market from 2020 onwards. In an interview, Dr. Frank Welsch, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand with responsibility for Technical Development, speaks about what this means for the future, the challenges faced when developing the I.D. R Pikes Peak, and the strategy behind competing at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. -
Volkswagen’s digital transformation gathers speed
Volkswagen in transition: the company is speeding up the development of its ecosystem with its own software know-how and the strength of external partners. The automobile will evolve into a central hub in the Internet of Things. -
California Dreamin’ – with the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak
Two months after the historic, record-breaking triumph at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, the I.D. R Pikes Peak is set to make a first return visit to the United States: the first fully electrically-driven race car from Volkswagen will be appearing at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on 26 August. The globally renowned event is one of a kind, a unique exhibition – for exceptional historic automobiles and for innovative concept cars. It represents the highlight of the Pebble Beach Automotive Week, which is taking place this year from 21 to 26 August. -
Volkswagen on tour this summer at the 2018 Sachsen Classic
Once again this year, more than 20 classic cars from the Volkswagen Group and Autostadt collections will be making an appearance at the Sachsen Classic. Volkswagen’s Zwickau and Chemnitz production plants will be the start and finish of the long-running regularity rally taking place from 23 to 25 August. -
Success factors for the I.D. R Pikes Peak: reduced weight thanks to on-board power generation
For a fully-electric racing car like the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak, the weight of the battery is especially important: it is the heaviest individual component – and each increase in weight has a detrimental effect on the car’s performance. It was logical for the Volkswagen Motorsport engineers to keep the batteries as small and light as possible in the record-breaking car. In addition to the sophisticated, weight-saving lithium-ion design, they are relying on technology that is already implemented in numerous electrically-driven production models: recuperation. -
Volkswagen plans to produce some 1 million vehicles in Wolfsburg
Looking to the future, production volumes at the main plant in Wolfsburg are to rise to around one million. Higher productivity will enable higher capacity utilization. The groundwork is being laid in Wolfsburg in order to bundle Golf production at one location as set out in the Pact for the Future. Coinciding with the launch of the Golf 8, Golf production in Zwickau and Puebla is to be relocated to the main plant. The new SEAT Tarraco will also begin rolling off the assembly line in Wolfsburg soon. Dr. Andreas Tostmann, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand responsible for Production and Logistics, commented: “We are planning to increase productivity by 25 percent at all German factories by 2020 as agreed. Further efforts are needed at Volkswagen in future to remain competitive, particularly post-2020.” -
Volkswagen to continue support for Formula Student Germany in next racing season
Volkswagen is continuing its involvement in Formula Student Germany (FSG) in the next racing season and will once again sponsor selected university teams entering the international design competition. In future, the company will focus more strongly on the “Driverless” category than has previously been the case in order to bring the innovation areas of electric drive systems and autonomous driving even closer together. At the Hockenheimring, the company also recruits new career entrants. Trainees and interns who were active in Formula Student have repeatedly joined Volkswagen. -
Success factors for the I.D. R Pikes Peak: 4.000 kilometres of test drives
It was all over after exactly 7:57.148 minutes. With Romain Dumas at the wheel, the I.D. R Pikes Peak crossed the finish line in the world’s most famous hill climb. A record-breaking sprint that lasted 19.99 kilometres, preceded by numerous tests over a distance of 4,000 kilometres – spread over six months. -
Success factors for the I.D. R Pikes Peak: teamwork between racers and technicians from production development
Motorsport is a team sport. At the same time, the individual team members sometimes do their thing on different playing fields – under certain circumstances, they can usually be found playing a completely different sport. A prime example of this is the I.D. R Pikes Peak, with which Volkswagen driver Romain Dumas set a new record of 7:57.148 minutes at the most famous hill climb in the world on 24 June 2018. As well as Volkswagen Motorsport, a whole host of departments from within the Volkswagen Group were involved in making the project a success. “The help we received from production development was crucial to the success,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Sven Smeets. -
Volkswagen continues growth in July
The Volkswagen brand continues on its growth path: with 505,900 vehicles delivered in July, the brand reported a rise of 8.4 percent compared with the same month of the previous year. All in all, the brand handed 3,624,600 cars over to customers from January to July, representing an increase of 6.5 percent compared with the corresponding period of the previous year. Jürgen Stackmann, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Sales: “This was the best July in the history of the Volkswagen brand. We are continuing our upward trend and are significantly ahead of the prior-year figure after seven months. With cumulative deliveries of 3.6 million vehicles, we have outperformed the Volkswagen brand’s previous record for this period. However, the next few months will be more challenging. The changeover to the WLTP test procedure will probably lead to delays in deliveries affecting certain model lines in Europe.” -
Online now: Volkswagen launches digital newsroom
Volkswagen announces the launch of a new digital offering for journalists, bloggers, online multipliers and brand fans: starting today, the Volkswagen Newsroom (www.volkswagen-newsroom.com) brings users the most important information, stories, images, videos and social media content from the world of Volkswagen. The new online service offers media professionals a central research and information platform and brings brand fans an interactive brand experience. -
High-tech for the future: Volkswagen Design focuses on working digitally
LED screens, interactive design, collaboration in virtual reality: Volkswagen Design is forging ahead with the process of digital transformation and has completely changed its working methods over the past two years. And with success: from the creation of new products right up to the point of their acceptance, work is now consistently carried out digitally, which significantly increases the efficiency of individual work steps and facilitates collaboration across locations. The new processes also give employees much more room for personal and professional development. -
Volkswagen aims to break the land speed record on the United States salt flats with its new Jetta
Volkswagen is still on the hunt for new records: only a few weeks after the success of the electric I.D. R Pikes Peak in the “Race To The Clouds” held in the Rocky Mountains and in the UK’s Goodwood Hill Climb and it’s already time for the next sporting highlight. Between 11 and 17 August, Volkswagen of America will be aiming to break the land speed record in the BGC/G class of the Southern California Timing Association on Lake Bonneville – the salt flats in the US state of Utah – with its specially prepared but near-production version of the new-generation Jetta. -
Success factors for the I.D. R Pikes Peak: Pacemaker Dieter Depping, test and development driver
He is the unsung hero and secret pacemaker behind the successful Pikes Peak project: Dieter Depping. The man from Hannover (Germany), who celebrates his 52nd birthday today on 7 August, has been a motorsport test and development driver for Volkswagen for 16 years. Without him, the twelve titles in the World Rally Championship (WRC), a further two titles in the FIA World Rallycross Championship (WRX), the three Dakar victories with the Race Touareg, and the many class wins at the Nürburgring 24 Hours would have been inconceivable. Or, as Romain Dumas puts it: “Dieter was my second throttle foot. Without him, the record on Pikes Peak would not have been possible”. The fact that this quote from Dumas came just moments after the ground-breaking 7:57.148 minutes, in which he had made motorsport and electromobility history, speaks volumes of the key role that Dieter Depping has played in the Volkswagen Motorsport success story. -
A strong first half for the Volkswagen brand
Following the good start to the year, the Volkswagen brand continued its successful development in the second quarter. In the first half of the year, the brand recorded significant increases in sales revenue, operating profit and return on sales. From January to June, sales revenue reached €42.7 billion, 8 percent over the prior-year figure, largely driven by the strong rise in vehicle sales. With 3.12 million vehicles delivered, a new half-yearly record was achieved. After eliminating special items, the operating profit rose by 20 percent to €2.1 billion. The operating return on sales improved to 5.0 percent (compared with 4.5 percent in 2017). In connection with the processing of the diesel crisis, the brand recorded one-off expenses in the amount of €1.6 billion in the first half. The operating profit after special items was therefore €0.5 billion. -
Volkswagen Group records strong first half: growth in sales revenue and earnings
The Volkswagen Group continued its profitable growth course in the first half of 2018, post-ing record figures for deliveries, sales revenue and earnings (before special items). In the period from January to June, Group sales revenue rose from EUR 115.3 billion to EUR 119.4 billion year-on-year. Operating profit before special items increased from EUR 8.9 billion to EUR 9.8 billion, however, expenditures of EUR 1.6 billion in connection with the diesel crisis were recognized in the second quarter. The operating return on sales before special items rose from 7.7 to 8.2 percent. The Group’s profit after tax for the first six months was up 2.1 percent year-on-year to EUR 6.6 billion.“ The Volkswagen Group per-formed successfully in the first half of the year, with very solid growth in sales revenue and earnings. We also delivered more vehicles than ever before,” said Dr. Herbert Diess, CEO of Volkswagen AG, commenting on the results for the first six months. “However, we cannot rest on our laurels because great challenges lie ahead of us in the coming quarters – especial-ly regarding the transition to the new WLTP test procedure. Growing protectionism also poses major challenges for the globally integrated automotive industry.” -
I.D. R Pikes Peak makes Germany debut at Classic Days
From 03 to 05 August the time has come: the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak will make its debut in Germany at the 13th Classic Days at Schloss Dyck. The Autostadt in Wolfsburg will present Volkswagen’s first all-electric powered racing car at their “Passion | Pace | Performance” exhibition. With around 40 exhibits, ranging from the 1920s Bugatti to the current Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak, the motorsport brand diversity of the Volkswagen Group will be presented, focussing on the past, present day and future. The 500 kW (680 PS) I.D. R Pikes Peak is the sporting forerunner of the I.D. family, the series of all-electric powered production cars that Volkswagen will be launching as of 2020. -
Unique, sporty, passionate: Volkswagen presents classic cars and the automotive future at Classic Days 2018
Volkswagen Classic will showcase six carefully selected vehicles at the Classic Days classic car and motor festival held at Schloss Dyck in Jüchen from 3 to 5 August. Volkswagen Classic is sending three rare prototypes to Jüchen for the 13th edition of this classic car event: the Golf Mk3 A59 ‘Rallye’ and the twin-engine Golf Mk2 ‘Pikes Peak’, both motorsport vehicles, together with the elegant Volkswagen Type 3 convertible. In addition, the rare Volkswagen SP 2 will bring a touch of Brazilian exoticism to the Rhineland, while a convertible 1303 Beetle and a ‘Yellow Black Racer’ promise summertime driving fun. -
Ralf Brandstätter named Chief Operating Officer of the Volkswagen brand
Ralf Brandstätter (49), Volkswagen brand Board member for Procurement, has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Volkswagen brand effective August 1, 2018. In this newly-created function, Brandstätter will lead the Volkswagen brand’s operating business. At the same time, he continues as the brand’s Board member for Procurement. -
Success factors for the I.D. R Pikes Peak: Computer is important factor for development in record time
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is unique in many ways. One thing that makes the most famous hill climb in the world so special is the heavily restricted test drives. Volkswagen Motorsport wasn’t able to complete hundreds of laps during the development of the I.D. R Pikes Peak, like Formula 1 teams are allowed to do on certain racetracks, for example. Before driver Romain Dumas reached the 4,302-metre summit in a new record time, he wasn’t even able to complete one full test run of the actual track with Volkswagen’s first all-electric powered racing car. -
Success factors for the I.D. R Pikes Peak – a record breaker, thanks to 3D printing
It is less than four weeks since Romain Dumas and the I.D. R Pikes Peak set a new all-time record of 7:57.148 minutes for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. For the Volkswagen Motorsport engineers, the race against the clock lasted far longer – about eight months. In motorsport, this is an extremely short period in motor racing terms, yet this is all the technicians were given to develop Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car. -
Record-breaking run of the I.D. R Pikes Peak from different perspectives
Volkswagen made motorsport history at the 2018 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on 24 June. At the wheel of the 500-kW (680-PS), fully-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak, Romain Dumas (F) defeated cars powered by conventional drivetrain technology. The 40-year-old’s time of 7:57.148 minutes, not only smashed the previous record for electric cars, but also bettered the all-time record set in 2013 by Sébastien Loeb (F) – by fully 16.730 seconds. -
Volkswagen’s main plant in Wolfsburg wins the Automotive Lean Production Award for the first time
Volkswagen’s main plant in Wolfsburg is heading for greater productivity and efficiency with an exemplary pace of change. This is the assessment given by a team of independent experts in its European competition study for the Lean Production Award 2018. The internationally renowned award for slim and agile production systems in the automotive industry has gone to the Wolfsburg plant for the first time. At Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg plant, the jury assessed solutions at more than 50 stations in the press shop, body shop, paint shop, assembly and logistics as well as with respect to Industry 4.0. -
Five tips for relaxing summer holidays with the car
A relaxing holiday starts with a pleasant journey. These days holidaymakers use their satnav and smartphone for a safe and stress-free journey. When these devices work as a team, they greatly enhance the holiday experience. The Volkswagen Car-Net is the key here. These five tips help drivers reduce stress levels when on holiday. -
I.D. R Pikes Peak thrills fans with record run at Goodwood
The I.D. R Pikes Peak has wrapped up its next record. Romain Dumas (F) set a new record for electric cars of 43.86 seconds in Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Following his record-breaking exploits at the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb just three weeks ago, Dumas beat the previous fastest time for electric cars on the Goodwood Hillclimb, which has stood since 2013, by 3.48 seconds. The all-time record still belongs to Nick Heidfeld (D). The former Formula 1 driver completed the 1.86-kilometre route in 41.6 seconds at the wheel of a McLaren-Mercedes MP4/13 Formula 1 car in 1999. -
The new T-Cross will be manufactured in Volkswagen Navarra
Volkswagen Navarra will manufacture the T-Cross, the new compact SUV of the Volkswagen brand. This was announced by Dr. Andreas Tostmann, Head of Volkswagen Production & Logistics today. Thus, the plant, which is producing the Polo since 1984, will build a second model for the first time in its history. -
Volkswagen steps up commitment to Formula Student and supports six university teams at Hockenheim
Volkswagen is stepping up its commitment to the international design competition Formula Student Germany (FSG). This year, Volkswagen is supporting six university teams which are entering nine racing cars – more than ever before. The Wolfsburg company is focusing on two categories: “Driverless” for autonomous vehicles and “Electric” for racing cars with electric drive systems. Just before the works holidays, Volkswagen invited the selected racing teams to a warm-up training session at its Ehra-Lessien proving grounds for initial test laps and the fine tuning of their cars. Formula Student Germany is to be held on the Hockenheimring from August 7 to 12, 2018. -
Volkswagen is systematically and vigorously advancing its electromobility offensive in China
The Volkswagen Group is expanding its successful business relationships in the People’s Republic of China. As part of the 5th German-Chinese government consultations, the Volkswagen Group China signed letters of intent with a long-time joint-venture partner, the FAW Group, and with the China Intelligent and Connected Vehicles (Beijing) Research Institute Co. Ltd. (ICV). The agreements cover the areas of e-mobility, connectivity, mobility services and autonomous driving. A day earlier, the Volkswagen Group China joined the automakers JAC and SEAT in signing letters of intent in which the three underscored their commitment to e-mobility. The aim of the partnerships is to draw on the support of the Chinese partners and to systematically and vigorously fuel the company’s far-reaching electro-offensive and to apply new technologies. -
Supervisory Board appoints Dr. Stefan Sommer Group Board Member for Procurement
The Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft has appointed Dr. Stefan Sommer (55) as the Board Member with responsibility for Procurement effective latest January 1, 2019. Sommer was Chief Executive Officer of ZF Friedrichshafen AG until the end of 2017. In his new function he succeeds Dr. Francisco Javier Garcia Sanz, who left the Company in April at his own request. -
Volkswagen Expands E-Mobility Engagement in China
Volkswagen Group China today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group Corp., Ltd. (JAC) and SEAT in Berlin, in the presence of German Chancellor An-gela Merkel and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. The three groups will together establish a new R&D center with a focus on developing electric vehicles, connectivity and autonomous driving technologies, as well as a competitive platform for battery electric vehicles (BEV). SEAT brand will be introduced to China by 2020/2021. The move is a significant step in reinforcing Sino-German cooperation, as well as supporting Volkswagen Group China’s drive to be a leader in e-mobility. -
Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak goes in search of more records at Goodwood
Memories of victory at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb are still fresh: Volkswagen made motorsport history on 24 June, when Romain Dumas (F) and the I.D. R Pikes Peak set a new all-time record of 7:57.148 minutes at the most famous hill climb in the world. From 12 to 15 July, the pursuit of records continues at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The iconic motorsport event is the largest event of its type in the world and is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. More than 200,000 visitors from all over the world are expected to flock to the south of England for this unique homage to motorsport. -
Federal Constitutional Court ruled an appeal about constitutional issue related to Munich prosecutor’s raid of Jones Day’s Office
Volkswagen AG welcomes the fact that the Federal Constitutional Court decision has now provided clarity with regard to the outstanding legal issues -
Product Milestone as Volkswagen R delivers 200,000th ‘R’ model
Volkswagen R has handed over the jubilee car to a UK customer. Volkswagen R stands for performance, sport and emotion. Since it was established in 2002, Volkswagen R has developed and retailed 200,000 cars. -
Video: Helicopter footage of the I.D. R Pikes Peak’s record-breaking run
Volkswagen made motorsport history at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on 24 June. At the wheel of the 500-kW (680-PS), fully-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak, Romain Dumas (F) defeated cars powered by conventional drivetrain technology and, with a time of 7:57.148 minutes, not only smashed the previous record for electric cars, but also bettered the all-time record set in 2013 by Sébastien Loeb (F) – by fully 16 seconds. -
Top performance for Volkswagen in first half year
The Volkswagen brand continued on its growth path in the first half year, delivering 3.12 million vehicles in the first six months, an increase of 6.3 percent compared with the same period last year. Jürgen Stackmann, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Sales, commented: “We can look back on a successful first half year. The fact that the Volkswagen brand grew 20 percent in Brazil is worthy of special mention. In Europe, over 100,000 orders for the T-Roc have already been placed since the market launch. In Germany, the 5 models with the highest registrations in May all came from Volkswagen. The second half of the year will be significantly more challenging. We anticipate delays of certain model lines in Europe as a result of the switch to WLTP.” -
Volkswagen to offer “zero-emission” car sharing services in future
The Volkswagen brand will also be offering its customers car sharing services in future. The WE customer platform is to begin rolling out various vehicle-on-demand services, in particular car sharing, in Germany in 2019. These services are to be extended to major cities in Europe, North America and Asia as early as 2020. This was announced by the Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Sales, Jürgen Stackmann, at an event held in Berlin. -
Volkswagen celebrates German premiere of I.D. VIZZION in Berlin
The future flagship of the electrically driven I.D. family is presented in Germany for the very first time. From today on, the concept study I.D. VIZZION is a major highlight at the exhibition DRIVING VIZZIONS TO REALITY at DRIVE. Volkswagen Group Forum in Berlin. Having had its world premiere at the Geneva Motorshow this March, the limousine embodies the brand’s realistic vision of tomorrow’s Volkswagen: pioneering in design, technology, quality – and unconditionally made for e-mobility. The most personal, Volkswagen-Studie I.D. VIZZION emotional and indivual Volkswagen of all times is one out of many attractions at the mobility exhibition that displays innovative concepts for an emission-free and fully-connected mobility future until 14th October 2018, in a 650-square- meter-show. -
80th anniversary of Wolfsburg: CEO Herbert Diess presents an electrifying gift from Volkswagen to the city of Wolfsburg
The CEO of Volkswagen AG, Dr. Herbert Diess, congratulated the city of Wolfsburg on its 80th anniversary today and gave it a truly electrifying gift to celebrate the occasion. The executive presented the city with 12 mobile charging stations and a long-term investment of in Wolfsburg’s electronic charging infrastructure that will be expanded step by step in accordance to the city’s needs – for a total amount of €10 million. Residents of the city can already see one of the charging stations: at Volkswagen’s booth set up as part of the festival being held on Porsche Street. -
Milestone in Africa: Volkswagen launches local assembly and Car sharing in Rwanda
The Volkswagen brand is expanding its engagement in Africa: today saw the start of its Integrated Mobility Solution in Rwanda that includes local vehicle assembly, innovative mobility services and a sales and service retail outlet CFAO Volkswagen Rwanda. Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Group South Africa and responsible for the Sub-Sahara region, officially launched the project in the capital Kigali in the presence of Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame. Volkswagen is thus taking the next step toward developing new up-and-coming markets. In a long-term perspective, the brand intends to play a leading role in the emerging automotive industry in Africa. With this engagement, Volkswagen is making a substantial contribution to Africa’s economic development. -
The production process of the future: exoskeletons provide support for employees at the Bratislava plant
At its Bratislava plant, the Volkswagen brand is forging ahead with the modernization of its production processes with a project focusing on the future of work. This includes physical and behavioral ergonomic support systems which are firmly anchored in corporate strategy in connection with the topic of demographics and ergonomics. Ergonomically unfavorable workplaces are being continually reduced. Where the ergonomics of an operation cannot be improved, devices such as “exoskeletons” can provide support for production workers. These external supporting structures, which are worn somewhat like a rucksack, are currently being tested by Volkswagen in series production at its Bratislava plant. 30 workers are benefiting from a considerable reduction in physical effort in their assembly work. -
All time record: Volkswagen makes history with the I.D. R Pikes Peak
Volkswagen and the I.D. R Pikes Peak have made history at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Driving the 500-kW (680 PS) I.D. R Pikes Peak, Romain Dumas (F) defeated a field including cars with conventional drivetrain technology. In doing so, he not only broke the previous record for electric vehicles, but also bettered Sébastien Loeb’s (F) all-time record from 2013 – by a full 16 seconds. Dumas’ new record of 7m 57.148s minutes is now top of the list of Pikes Peak champions, which includes such acclaimed drivers as Loeb, Walter Röhrl (D), Michèle Mouton (F), Stig Blomqvist (S), Nobuhiro Tajima (J) and also Rod Millen and his son Rhys (both NZ). -
Volkswagen Group China’s mega-factory in Foshan will strengthen e-mobility strategy in China
Through the completion of the Foshan Plant Phase II, the Foshan production site’s capacity will double from 300,000 to 600,000 cars annually. As the first SUV-model of the Volkswagen brand built by FAW-Volkswagen, the T-Roc successfully rolled off the line in April this year. Together with the Audi Q2L, which will also start production this year, it is a vital building block in the fast growing SUV segment. -
Two days to go until the record attempt: kW buzz on Pikes Peak
At 10:00 local time (18:00 CEST) on Sunday, Volkswagen will begin its pursuit of the record for electric vehicles, which currently stands at 8:57.118 minutes, at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the US state of Colorado. Three-time overall winner Romain Dumas will be at the wheel of the I.D. R Pikes Peak, Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car. The Frenchman set the fastest time in qualifying on Wednesday. Much is new to many of the Volkswagen crew on Pikes Peak, both on and off the track. -
Volkswagen I. D. R Pikes Peak sets fastest time in qualifying
Romain Dumas and the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak made a clear statement of intent in qualifying ahead of the 2018 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the US state of Colorado. The Frenchman, at the wheel of Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car, was the fastest of all the competitors, setting an eye-catching time of 3:16.083 minutes. The three-time Pikes Peak winner went 11.049 seconds quicker than second-placed Simone Faggioli in his Norma M20 SF PKP with its combustion engine. “That was a very good day for us,” said Dumas. “The I.D. R Pikes Peak is incredible. I have never experienced acceleration and power like that in a racing car. I am noticing how the car and I are becoming more and more of a unit with every kilometer,” said the Frenchman. -
Volkswagen AG, Ford to Explore Strategic Alliance to Extend Capabilities, Strengthen Competitiveness, Better Serve Customers
Volkswagen AG and Ford Motor Company today announce they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and are exploring a strategic alliance designed to strengthen each company’s competitiveness and better serve customers globally. -
Rupert Stadler has been temporarily released from his duties as a member of the Board of Management – Supervisory Board accepts Stadler’s request
On Tuesday, the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft accepted the request of member of the Group Board of Management Rupert Stadler to release him from his duties as member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG. -
Romain Dumas: “I have a great respect for this mountain”
Romain Dumas has won the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb three times already. On 24 June, the Frenchman will contest the most famous hill climb in the world for Volkswagen for the first time. He has one goal behind the wheel of the 500-kW (680-hp) I.D. R Pikes Peak: The 40-year-old is aiming to break the record for electric cars. This currently stands at 8:57.118 minutes and was set by New Zealand’s Rhys Millen in 2016. -
The clock is ticking: Just ten days to go until the start of the I.D. R Pikes Peak
Final preparations are underway and the tension is mounting. Race week at the “Pikes Peak International Hill Climb” kicks off on Monday (18 June) with the Technical Inspection for participating vehicles in Colorado Springs. Attendance is compulsory for the I.D. R Pikes Peak, the first fully-electric racing car from Volkswagen. The official practice session starts the next day. “The adrenaline levels will rise steadily until the race on Sunday,” says Romain Dumas, the three-time Pikes Peak winner who will be driving the I.D. R Pikes Peak. -
Volkswagen’s incubator programme: three international innovative start-ups move into the Gläserne Manufaktur
Three more start-ups have been decided on for the founders programme in the Future Mobility Incubator at the Gläserne Manufaktur: At CEBIT, the international digital trade fair in Hannover, and at a founders competition in Riga (Latvia), the start-ups CarPay-Diem from Luxembourg, Zouzoucar from France and carVertical from Lithuania were chosen as the winners. They will begin work in the Gläserne Manufaktur in September 2018, where they will have the opportunity to develop their ideas for market readiness with the support of Volkswagen and the city of Dresden’s business development team. Thus with the third founders class, exclusively international start-ups are moving to the capital city of Saxony. -
A science in its own right: The rapid-charging system for the I.D. R Pikes Peak
The corresponding paragraph in the regulations for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is clear: Should a participant in the most famous hill climb in the world be forced to suspend their run for safety reasons – for example, should it suddenly start to hail or another car require recovering – they have exactly 20 minutes, in which to prepare for their second attempt and to return to the start line. “This time frame was a crucial factor when configuring the battery for the I.D. R Pikes Peak,” says François-Xavier Demaison, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport. “Furthermore, the charging strategy and independent mobile power supply are also important aspects of the rapid-charging system.” -
Administrative order imposing a fine being issued by the Braunschweig public prosecutor against Volkswagen in the context of the diesel crisis
The Braunschweig public prosecutor today issued an administrative order against Volkswagen AG in its capacity as secondary party pursuant to sections 30 para. 1, 130 para. 1 of the German Act on Regulatory Offences in the context of the diesel crisis. The administrative order provides for a fine of €1 billion in total, consisting of the maximum penalty as legally provided for of €5 million and the disgorgement of economic benefits in the amount of €995 million. -
Highly-sophisticated and highly efficient – the drivetrain technology in the I.D. R Pikes Peak
The I.D. R Pikes Peak that Romain Dumas will be driving on 24th June 2018 at the “Pikes Peak International Hill Climb” boasts the most sophisticated powertrain ever developed by Volkswagen Motorsport. “We are breaking new ground with the I.D. R Pikes Peak: This is the first time ever that Volkswagen will be competing in a race with a fully-electric car. Alongside the elaborate aerodynamic concept and the special requirements for the sports car chassis, the development of the electric drivetrain was the greatest challenge,” explains François-Xavier Demaison, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport. -
Sporty outfit unveiled: The I.D. R Pikes Peak to bear start number 94
The countdown is on to the 96th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Two weeks ahead of the start of the most famous hill climb in the world, the I.D. R Pikes Peak appeared at the final official test in its final livery and bearing its start number. Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car lines up on 24 June in grey – the hallmark colour of the I.D. family. -
Prince Albert II of Monaco finds out more about e-mobility at the Gläserne Manufaktur
Prince Albert II of Monaco visited Volkswagen’s Gläserne Manufaktur in Dresden today (Friday). The head of state met with Thomas Ulbrich, member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for e-mobility and spokesperson of the management team at Volkswagen Sachsen, CFO Kai Siedlatzek and plant manager Lars Dittert. The discussions focused on Volkswagen’s route to e-mobility as well as the transformation of the automotive industry, digitalization and new mobility. Prince Albert II – who was accompanied by Dresden’s Mayor Dirk Hilbert – is visiting Saxony’s capital city to receive the “Taurus” European Culture Prize on behalf of his foundation at a ceremony in the Frauenkirche. He is being recognized for his commitment to the preservation of the world’s oceans. -
Volkswagen continues growth in May
The Volkswagen brand continues its growth: with 539,700 vehicles delivered in May, the brand recorded a rise of 5.1 percent compared with the prior-year figure for the same month. All in all, the brand delivered 2,584,700 vehicles to customers from January to May.: Jürgen Stackmann, Volkswagen Board Member for Sales: “This was the best individual month of May in the history of the Volkswagen brand. We have continued our upward trend and are significantly above the prior-year figure after five months. The product offensive, with new vehicles such as the Polo, Tiguan Allspace, Virtus and the T-Roc, has been well received by our customers. I am very pleased about this!“ -
Emotional and functional – the design of the I.D. R Pikes Peak
Development of the I.D. R Pikes Peak started around seven months ago – a multifaceted challenge, including for the Volkswagen Design team. “We already have a wealth of experience with high-performance cars and with racing cars, but a powerful prototype like the I.D. R Pikes Peak was a world first for us,” said Klaus Bischoff, Head of Volkswagen Design. “Our task was to transfer the unmistakable style of the I.D. family to such an extreme and emotional racing car.” -
Volkswagen launches European marketing campaign for new Touareg
Volkswagen is taking the next step towards the market launch of the new Touareg. Since June 1, a 360° campaign including TV, printed media and social media channels is to be launched in Germany. Other European countries are to follow from mid-June. The Touareg is the brand’s new flagship and will occupy a leading position in the luxury SUV segment with its innovative operation, comfort and safety systems. The campaign designed by Grabarz & Partner presents these features in an appealing and humorous way. -
Romain Dumas completes first test with the I.D. R Pikes Peak in the USA
The I.D. R Pikes Peak has completed the first test for the “Pikes Peak International Hill Climb” on the original track in the US state of Colorado: Driver Romain Dumas was impressed with the performance of the all-electric powered racing car. Since the track to the summit at an altitude of 4,302 metres is a public road, the team only had access to it for three hours. For preparing for the further test runs and the race on 24th June, Volkswagen Motorsport has established a permanent base in Colorado. -
Electric offensive: Volkswagen trains top experts for the production of the I.D. family
The Volkswagen brand is moving ahead with preparations for its major electric offensive and launching a comprehensive e-mobility competence program. Within the framework of the “Future Electronic Engineer Program” (FEEP), 100 young engineers and skilled workers throughout the world will be trained as top production experts. As start of production specialists, they will occupy future-oriented positions in planning, the pilot hall, the e-mobility model group, the pre-series center and electronics development. The first participants to complete the three-year program will support the run-up phase of the I.D. family, the new generation of full-electric vehicles based on the modular electrification toolkit (MEB) in Zwickau. -
Israeli Startup enters the “Future Mobility Incubator” at the Gläserne Manufaktur in Dresden
Volkswagen supports innovative business ideas for future mobility. A young founder team was selected at the EcoMotion international mobility fair in Tel Aviv, Israel for the startup programme in the Future Mobility incubator at die Gläserne Manufaktur in Dresden: the Make My Day startup was chosen as the victor following a pitch competition. The startup is developing an innovative app, a kind of personal assistant for your car which looks for the optimal route for the driver, the optimised charging for electric vehicles and integrates necessary daily shopping into the route planning. The user will save time and money with Make My Day. The startup will begin work in Die Gläserne Manufaktur in September 2018, where they will have the opportunity to develop their ideas to market readiness with the support of Volkswagen and the City of Dresden’s business development team. -
Information issued by Volkswagen: Audit in Ukraine
Volkswagen AG has been informed of irregularities in issuing homologation certificates for 2,800 Golf Variant models in Ukraine. -
Group Award 2018: Volkswagen Group honors international top suppliers
The Volkswagen Group presented the “Volkswagen Group Award 2018” to its best suppliers yesterday at a ceremony in ‘Kraftwerk Berlin’. Last year’s 19 best suppliers were presented with their awards in seven categories. As ‘category sponsors’, high-ranking representatives from the Volkswagen Group handed over the awards to the suppliers at a ceremony attended by some 280 guests from 26 countries. -
Every gram counts – lightweight design strategy defines I.D. R Pikes Peak concept
It started with simulations. “Before we actually assembled the I.D. R Pikes Peak, we used computers to analyse a multitude of different configurations,” says Willy Rampf, technical advisor to the project and a man with a wealth of Formula 1 experience, recalling the start of the development of the car for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “It was clear to us that we would not have time to build multiple test vehicles. We had to get it right at the first attempt.” -
Up in the air – Volkswagen Motorsport breaking new technological ground with the aerodynamics of the I.D. R Pikes Peak
At first glance, it is clear to see that the I.D. R Pikes Peak has been developed for extreme conditions. The aerodynamic aspect of Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car is also uncompromisingly designed to tackle the most famous hill climb in the world. “The start line is located at an altitude of almost 2,900 metres, with the finish at 4,300 metres above sea level. The low air pressure up there means that the aerodynamic conditions are different to those at a racetrack on flat land,” explains François-Xavier Demaison, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport and the man responsible for developing the I.D. R Pikes Peak as project manager. The relatively open regulations gave the engineers far more leeway, with which to design the chassis and rear wing of the I.D. R Pikes Peak, than in other racing disciplines. -
Volkswagen announces a recall for the current Polo generation due to issue with rear seat belt lock fixtures
Volkswagen has confirmed a technical issue on the new Polo (model year 2018). There is the possibility that in rare situations (e.g. sudden quick lane changes with five passengers on board) and when the rear center seat and the rear left seat are occupied at the same time, the left seat belt lock could be unintentionally released. At Volkswagen safety remains a main priority and the brand has identified a technical solution: a redesigned belt lock fixture, which will prevent this from happening. -
Volkswagen Group supports “The Future Starts Here” exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London
The V&A explores the cultural effects of new technologies and design in its major spring exhibition The Future Starts Here, opening on 12 May until4 November 2018. Visitors to the museum will also be able to take a seat in Volkswagen’s autonomous concept car SEDRIC and experience how it interacts with passengers. -
Volkswagen records double-digit growth in April
The Volkswagen brand has once again stepped up its growth rate. With about 520,000 vehicles delivered in April, the brand recorded an increase of 11 percent compared with the prior-year figure for the same month. All in all, the brand already delivered 2,044,900 vehicles from January to April. Jürgen Stackmann, Volkswagen Board Member for Sales, said: “The Volkswagen brand continues to step up the pace. We have already passed the 2 million vehicle mark after four months and have generated enthusiasm for Volkswagen with more customers than ever before. The sustained upward trend in our domestic market Germany, the USA and South America is particularly gratifying. It should be mentioned that the new Polo has already been delivered to 140,000 customers and that deliveries of the new T-Roc have reached 41,000 units. -
Double premiere at GTI meeting – apprentices from Wolfsburg and Zwickau present the Golf show cars they have developed
Tomorrow, on May 9, the day they have been waiting for will finally arrive for two teams of Volkswagen apprentices. The double premiere of the special unique Golf show cars they have developed and built themselves as to take place at the 37th GTI meeting. Each year, tens of thousands of automobile fans come to Lake Wörthersee for the legendary event. Volkswagen’s budding specialists will be presenting their show cars to a large audience there: the Golf GTI Next Level (from Wolfsburg) and the Golf Estate TGI GMOTION (from Zwickau). -
Fit for the future — training at Volkswagen with iPads, online learning, teamwork and augmented reality
Vocational training at Volkswagen has a firm foundation for the future but will continue to change considerably over the next few years. This is the conclusion of the first “Future Training Forum” for all plants which has now been held in Wolfsburg. The main focus of the conference was on best-practice examples as well as discussions concerning future topics such as digitalization and networking, present and future learning environments, the role of instructors and the new skills of apprentices. -
The countdown has started: the new Golf GTI top model is set to be the highlight of this year's GTI meeting at Wörthersee
Wednesday 9 May will see the largest GTI meeting in the world get underway. The location: Reifnitz am Wörthersee. Last year, 7,300 cars and around 125,000 visitors turned the Austrian town into the Mecca of the GTI world. Figures of this magnitude are expected again this year. Volkswagen will also present a special highlight to the participants and visitors: the new Golf GTI TCR, which is nearly ready for production. As a tribute to fans, the 290 PS GTI will be unveiled in a world première at Wörthersee. The future top model in the Golf GTI series, which has sold more than 2.2 million units worldwide, will be launched at the end of the year. -
Volkswagen Sachsen GmbH The Transparent Factory, Dresden
Information for the Press -
A successful start to the year: Volkswagen brand continues upward trend
The Volkswagen brand continues to grow. In the first quarter of 2018, there were once again increases in deliveries, sales revenue and the result. With more than 1.5 million vehicles delivered (+5.9 percent), the brand recorded the best first quarter in its history. Sales revenue grew by 5.9 percent to €20.1 billion. Compared with the strong first quarter of the previous year, the operating result improved by 1.2 percent to €879 million. Despite considerable expenditure for the ongoing model offensive, Volkswagen recorded a return on sales of 4.4 percent (previous year: 4.6 percent). -
40-page journey back in time through the history of research at Volkswagen
In its new publication Ahead of the time, Volkswagen goes on a fascinating journey back in time through the history of research and development: as early as in 1955, the brand developed its first prototype with a unitary body and front-wheel drive. The first crash tests were conducted in 1965 and the ESVW I research vehicle from 1972 represented a milestone in the improvement of safety. The 40-page brochure covers developments in the area of alternative drives and also takes a look at the shape of things to come. -
Volkswagen Group off to a good start in 2018: Unit sales and sales revenue up again in the first quarter
The Volkswagen Group is off to a good start for the new fiscal year. Supported by record unit sales in the first quarter, Group sales revenue rose year-on-year from EUR 56.2 to EUR 58.2 billion. Operating profit decreased from EUR 4.4 to EUR 4.2 billion – the moderate decline is due, among other things, to the negative effect resulting from a change in the reporting of the valuation of derivatives of derivatives (IFRS 9). Without this effect, the adjusted earnings were up slightly year-on-year. In the period from January to March, the operating return on sales amounted to 7.2 percent. Additional significant provisions in connection with the diesel issue were not incurred in the first quarter of 2018, in addition there were significantly lower cash outflows in respect of this matter. -
Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto visits Volkswagen
The Mexican President, Enrique Peña Nieto, visited the Volkswagen Group headquarters in Wolfsburg today (Monday) during his trip to Germany. Peña Nieto met for talks with Hans Dieter Pötsch, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, and representatives from the Group and its brands. The talks focused in particular on the importance of Mexico as a production and sales location for the Volkswagen Group. The program also included a tour of production at the Wolfsburg plant and a visit to the Autostadt. -
The Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak – Motorsport driving electromobility to the top
A new era for Volkswagen in motorsport: The brand unveiled its fully-electric super sports car, the I.D. R Pikes Peak, today. With 500 kW (680 hp), 650 Nm of torque and weighing less than 1,100 kg, the super sports car will take on the iconic Pikes Peak hill climb in Colorado Springs, USA, on 24 June 2018. The goal: To beat the existing record of 8:57.118 minutes for electric cars at the “Race to the Clouds”. To achieve this, the I.D. R Pikes Peak will positively sprint into the future: 0 to 100 km/h in 2.25 seconds is faster than Formula 1 and Formula E cars. The I.D. R Pikes Peak was unveiled in the Alès, France, before taking to the racetrack for the first time at its roll-out. -
Charging to the peak – Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak set for world premier
It is the start of a new era in motorsport for Volkswagen – and one thing is already certain: This Volkswagen is set to electrify its public. When the I.D. R Pikes Peak is presented to the public on the coming Sunday, 22 April, it will be Volkswagen’s first fully-electric racing car. Lightweight construction and aerodynamic perfection contribute to an exciting design, which houses a powerful electric power unit. The I.D. R Pikes Peak will first take its place under the spotlight of the international media at the racetrack in Alés, France – home of world-class driver Romain Dumas (F), who will be at the wheel for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb – before the official test programme gets underway just one day later. Key date, 24 June 2018 – one goal: Break the record for electric racing cars. -
The Volkswagen Group makes Lisbon a software development center
The Volkswagen Group is further strengthening its international IT competence. In future, the Portuguese capital Lisbon will play a key role in these efforts. In Lisbon, the Volkswagen Group is developing a software development center for Volkswagen Group IT and MAN Truck & Bus AG. In the medium term, about 300 IT specialists, especially software engineers, web developers and UX designers, are to work at the new facility. They are concentrating on the development of cloud-based software solutions for the further digitalization of corporate processes within the Group and for the connected vehicle. -
Intensified customer experience: Volkswagen creates new Holistic User Experience (HUX) Division
Volkswagen is consistently preparing itself to become the most user centered mobility brand. Therefore, the company establishes the new Holistic User Experience (HUX) division headed by Dr. Matthias Erb. In his new role he reports directly to the CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Dr. Herbert Diess. -
Volkswagen sets delivery record in first quarter of 2018
With more than 1.5 million vehicles delivered to customers in the first quarter of 2018, the Volkswagen brand recorded the best first-quarter delivery results in its history. Worldwide deliveries in March 2018 totaled 584,700, another new record and an increase of 4.9 percent compared with the prior-year figure for the same month. Jürgen Stackmann, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Sales, said: “The Volkswagen brand’s first-quarter delivery results are very encouraging. Thank you to our customers and dealers! We achieved growth in many European markets as well as Germany. The upward trend continued in North and South America. In South America, the successful launch of the Polo and Virtus had a significant impact on the encouraging results, in North America the successful launch of the Tiguan Allspace and the Atlas. In Brazil, we recorded our best quarterly results since 2015 and won further market share.” -
Karen Kutzner to be Board Member for Finance of Volkswagen Slovakia
Karen Kutzner, previously Head of Accounting and Payroll Accounting of the Volkswagen brand has been appointed as Board Member for Finance of Volkswagen Slovakia a.s. with effect from June 1, 2018. In this position, she succeeds Jens Kellerbach, who is to be Head of Controlling, Vehicle Production and Logistics of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand.
Stories
Happening in orange
The creme21 youngtimer rallye has become a legend. Volkswagen Classic enriched the 17th cult event with three cool classic cars.
Diess and Osterloh: The big double interview
Interview with Volkswagen’s CEO and the Chairman of the Works Council about VfL Wolfsburg’s good start to the season, the problems with WLTP, the new importance of Production, and the “half-time score” for the Pact for the Future
“Our customers can continue to order the most popular models”
The Volkswagen brand expects an orderly transition to the new WLTP test procedure. The systematic, temporary storage of vehicles contributes to providing customers with the shortest possible waiting times.
“Efficient production is the key to our future success”
The Volkswagen brand is setting itself ambitious goals, with plans to increase productivity by 25 percent at all German factories by 2020. An interview with Dr. Andreas Tostmann, member of the Board of Management responsible for Production and Logistics.
Young engineers at Formula Student
Designing and building a race car within just one year: That’s what Formula Student Germany is about. Around 3,500 university students from all over the world took part in this year’s competition. Why Volkswagen supports this event.
Four-wheel fun at the castle
From history to the future: Volkswagen at the 13th Classic Days at Schloss Dyck
Five days faster!
Reorganisation at the Kassel Depot shortens travel time of replacement parts
Best of Friends
Racing driver Benjamin Leuchter and soccer-pro Max Kruse join forces
Popular in Poland
Volkswagen benefits from a strong sales boom
